^so do you think there would be any industrial flexible piping that would work for a fender well intake? Or due to the exposure hard metal piping is the only option?

I would think there would be the potential for a vendor to have a wire enforced thick silicon piping that is all one piece to match the bends and sell as a kit. I'd have a hard time imagining a good quality silicon piping being damaged by normal road debris and grime.

But you're the expert. Again, not trying to argue or question the current products, just curious if other combinations could be used to the same extent.

 

Ive got the gemballa carbon fiber inlet piping and I've been very happy with the performance and I assume they help keep temps cooler than metal inlet pipes. They won't work on a tip though only manuals.